8. Does my application require public or limited notification?

When a resource consent application is received by the council, we conduct an assessment of its environmental effects. If the environmental effects are more than minor, the resource consent will require public notification under Section 95A of the Resource Management Act.

Visit the notifications and hearings page for more information, and view more detail on the different levels of notification below.

Publicly notified applications

A publicly-notified application is advertised for submissions from the public. This will occur if your proposed activity could have significant effects on the environment or on people living in the area and other users of the resource.

It will be advertised in local newspapers, on the Internet and in some cases the physical site will be signposted.

This process ensures that people who may be affected by your proposed activity have the chance to take part in the decision-making process by making a submission on your application.

For a detailed look at the process and legal timeframes around publicly notified consents, click here.

Limited notification

If your activity has relatively localised effects but you are unable to obtain the written approval of all the affected persons, then only these people will be given an opportunity to lodge a submission on your application.

For a detailed look at the process and legal timeframes around limited notified consents, click here.

Non-notified 

For a detailed look at the process and legal timeframes around non-notified consents, click here.

Do I need a pre-hearing meeting?

The purpose of a pre-hearing meeting is to clarify or facilitate resolution of any matter or issue associated with an application for resource consent. A pre-hearing meeting can take place at the request of the applicant, submitter or from the council.

Attendees could be: 

  • The applicant
  • Council staff
  • Submitters
  • Any other persons considered appropriate. 

A pre-hearing meeting may reduce the time and cost associated with a hearing.

Submitters may also withdraw their submission so a hearing is not required.

Do I need a hearing?

A hearing can take place for a publicly notified or limited notified consent if the: 

  • Council considers it necessary
  • Applicant requests a hearing
  • Submitters wish to be heard. 

Have a look at the current consent hearings in Canterbury.